From military tattoos to the Ashes, and from Europe’s biggest street party to the world’s greatest festival of classical music, the events taking place over the coming months in Britain’s cities are some of the most thrilling that can be witnessed anywhere. Here’s just a pick of the treats on offer in Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast.

Edinburgh

The Scottish capital is one of the most festival-friendly cities anywhere in the world, and its bewildering array of events reaches a crescendo in August.

Show jumping, food tasting, falconry and sheepdog displays are just a few of the features of this long-running celebration of the Scottish countryside. Early-bird tickets are available until Wednesday (June 24).

There are about 120 concerts with an eclectic range of musicians. The grand finale of this year’s show – which organisers expect to sell out a month in advance – features Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.